Psychiatrists in Singapore, as with other medical specialist,can be found both in the public and also the private sector. If you are
thinking of going to see(or
have been referred or been given a recommendation to) a psychiatrist in Singapore and are not sure what to
expect, or you are feeling anxious and apprehensive, read on.

Many people
have pre-conceived ideas about what to expect before they see their
psychiatrist for the first time. They often
feel very apprehensive while waiting for the appointment. There is
often much anxiety about what he will be like and what he would then
do to you.

Actually, a visit to a psychiatrist in Singapore
is pretty similar to a visit to any other doctor. Think of a
psychiatrist as a doctor for emotions. Sometimes feelings and
emotions get “fractured”and a psychiatrist helps to take away
the emotional pain and let them heal again. If you feel shy or anxious about seeing the psychiatrist alone, you may also get your family members or best friends to accompany you for the first visit.

There are various approaches to
treating psychiatric conditions but all begin with a thorough and
complete history, a mental state examination and finally a
formulation and diagnosis is made. The first visit would typically
take about 40 to 60 minutes, during which, expect the psychiatrist to
get to know you and your problems better.

He would usually begin by finding out
about the main issuethat
has brought you to the clinic. He would then want to get to know you
better and find out more about your family, your childhood experiences and your
educational and occupational history. Male patients in Singapore would also be enquired about their stint in National Service. A more thorough evaluation of
each symptom would then be undertaken. He would also be interested to
find out more about your relationships with others and whether there
are areas of concern you have.

A skilled psychiatrist will of course weave all these into a pretty normal
conversation. The key to any psychiatric evaluation is making you
feel comfortable and a good psychiatrist would also be able to gauge
your level of comfort and tailor the level of questioning to suit
this. So don't be worried, seeing a psychiatrist is not particularly
scary orintimidating
and psychiatrists are generally warm, friendly,
approachable and nice people. It is often an experience on its own for most
patients to be intently listened to by someone for the first time.
The psychiatrist would then reflect upon what you have said and help
you better understand yourself and also develop greater insight into
your issues.

While gathering
the history, the psychiatrist would also conduct a “mental status
exam”. Think of this as the equivalent of the physical examination
that other doctorsdo.
A psychiatrist is a trained medical specialist who is able to assess
your level of emotional functioning through both verbal and
non-verbal cues that you provide.The use of therapy or medications or
both would depend on the diagnosis and severity but your wishes would
also be respected.

At the end of
the session, your psychiatrist will offer a summary of what he
sees as the current issues. He will take into account your
needs and wishes in the recommended subsequent plan of care.

So
that’s it, a rather enjoyable first session with plans made for
subsequent visits. Remember, Psychological conditions respond best when treated early, but its also never too late to seek help. Don't hesitate any longer, take good care of yourself and your emotional health and get your appointment and then turn up promptly at the clinic. Seeing a Psychiatrist in Singapore may just be the best thing that you have done for yourself in a while.